Gabon national team coach Thierry Mouyouma has acknowledged his side’s underdog status ahead of Thursday’s World Cup playoff against Nigeria but insisted that the Panthers will not be intimidated by the three-time African champions.
Speaking to newsmen, Mouyouma highlighted Nigeria’s attacking threat while stressing that his team will approach the game with confidence.
“We know that Nigeria, a great African team, is the favourite, and our underdog status suits us just fine. Nigeria will be under more pressure, which is understandable. But while we respect them for everything they represent, we’re not afraid of them. We know the quality of their squad, the dangers posed by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. And I think Nigeria knows us very well,” he said.
In addition to Gabon, Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo still have opportunities to advance to the next round of the World Cup playoffs.
Historically, Gabon have struggled against Nigeria, with their last victory over the Super Eagles coming in a 2-1 World Cup qualifier in June 1989.
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